My Kingdom

A little kingdom I

Where thoughts and feelings dwell,

And very hard I find the

Of governing it well;

For passion tempts and troubles me,

A wayward will misleads,

And selfishness its shadow

On all my words and deeds.

How can I learn to rule myself,

To be the child I should,

Honest and brave, nor ever

Of trying to be good?

How can I keep a sunny

To shine along life's way?

How can I tune my little

To sweetly sing all day?

Dear Father, help me with the

That casteth out my fear;

Teach me to lean on thee, and feel That thou art very near,

That no temptation is

No childish grief too small,

Since thou, with patience infinite,

Doth soothe and comfort all.

I do not ask for any

But that which all may

Nor seek to conquer any

Except the one within.

Be thou my guide until I find,

Led by a tender hand,

Thy happy kingdom in

And dare to take command.